The Disconnect

The Disconnect by Keren David presents a compelling narrative that intertwines the lives of a group of teenagers as they embark on a challenging six-week competition to forgo their mobile phones in exchange for a tempting £1,000 prize. At the heart of the story is Esther, whose desire to visit family in New York clashes with the daunting prospect of living without her device.

The Plot

As the competition progresses, Esther and her friends are forced to navigate the complexities of their relationships and their dependence on technology. The absence of their phones leads to unexpected revelations, prompting them to re-evaluate their connections with one another and the digital world. Through their journey, the story delves into significant themes such as:

• Connection: The characters explore what it truly means to connect with others without the barrier of screens.
• Influence: The impact of social media and peer pressure on their lives becomes increasingly evident.
• Identity: Each character confronts their self-image and the personas they project online versus who they are offline.

Keren David’s writing style is both engaging and authentic, capturing the essence of teenage life in a digital age. Readers who enjoyed her previous works, such as This Is Not a Love Story or When I Was Joe, will find familiar themes of friendship and self-discovery woven throughout this thought-provoking narrative.

"An insightful exploration of the ties that bind us, both virtually and physically."